Though mobile operators are usually in direct competition with one another, it’s encouraging that, where the subject really matters, they can cooperate to help combat a problem.

The GSM Association, the global trade association for mobile operators, has announced the launch of the Mobile Alliance against Child Sexual Abuse Content, which aims to block those who wish to access or profit from websites depicting child sexual abuse.

Their concern is that, with the continued rollout of high-speed mobile networks (mobile broadband), those determined to access such material will move from more conventional technology to the mobile space.

“As our industry rolls out mobile broadband networks that provide quick and easy access to multimedia Web sites, we must put safeguards in place to obstruct criminals looking to use mobile services as a means of accessing or hosting pictures and videos of children being sexually-abused,” said Craig Ehrlich, Chairman of the GSMA. “We call on governments across the world to support this initiative by providing the necessary legal clarity to ensure that mobile operators can act effectively against child sexual abuse content and to step up international enforcement against known sources.”